Here are our comments in the wake of our friend Tom Schweich's untimely passing. We supported Tom in his preliminary effort to run for Governor of Missouri. Subsequent to our getting to know him, he never disappointed us when we asked him to make a presentation, give us his opinion or meet our expectations as interested grass roots participants in  opinion journalism. He was an energetic and shining light in a political world that often seemed to be dimmed by unethical practices and corruption. In his job as Auditor, Tom Schweich worked hard at doing all he could do to serve the interests of Missouri's citizens.

We met Missouri Auditor Tom Schweich at a fundraiser in 2011. Ambassador John Bolton was there and, in our capacity as web journalists, we sought and obtained much background information concerning Schweich's past history in government. That meeting and subsequent conversations led us to believe that he would be a huge asset to the citizens of his state and a serious opponent of political cronyism and corruption.

Over the years as Missouri State Auditor, Tom Schweich met our highest expectations and more. We liked his deep sense of ethics and his pledge, that subsequently proved true, to be ethical in his conduct in office and accountable to the citizens of his state and his country. For this commentary, we have avoided what may be considered by some to be controversial comments concerning the circumstances that may have contributed to his loss. That said, we will comment regarding that subject when we feel it is more appropriate.

Missouri has lost one of its most talented, dedicated, honest and hard working public servants and his passing is a real loss. The citizens of Missouri had every reason to expect outstanding performance from this brilliant man in the years ahead. May God bless him, his family and friends and it is a shame that he is gone. 

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